Bendangmeren Ozukum of Waromung village, popularly known for his iconic character,
Boss Meren, is one of the most popular actors of Nagamese Film Industry.
Having started his journey as an actor in 1999 with the series ‘Bosti Manu’,
Meren had his breakthrough success from the film, Poisa Para Morom He Dangor.
His filmography includes films such as: Etu Zamana, Poisa Para Morom He Dangor, Hosa Morom, Mr.Jonny, Load, Dukh,
Duniya de Kismat, Oh Suku Pani, and many more.
He can also be seen featured in various music videos such as: Amar Maa, Pray Korise and many more.
One can follow his recent works on his YouTube Channel, ‘Boss Meren’.
In an attempt to learn more about the veteran actor, Mokokchung Times takes you in an exclusive interview with the Boss himself.
MTNews: Hello, Boss Meren, have you gotten used to this name? How does it feel to be identified with such an iconic character you played a long time ago?
Meren: Hello! Yes, I am used to this name and it already feels like an alter-ego now. I feel amazed because I never ever thought that this character I played in a film will stay with me for the rest of my life.
MTNews: People are familiar with you as ‘Boss Meren’. But would you kindly tell us a little bit more about yourself and what you are up to these days?
Meren: My official name is Bendangmeren Ozukum. I am a proud son of Waromung village. These days I am occupied mostly with carpentry and interior design. I am interested in artistic works in all forms. However, occasionally, I am still into acting as well whenever a project comes up or some productions invite me. There are some short film projects ready to be released soon this year.
MTNews: A lot of things have changed over the years since you started acting. What are your thoughts on the current Nagamese film industry?
Meren: Targeting only our local market will not let this industry grow any further. OTT platforms have taken over. So the future ahead is a more challenging one. But with existing technology and resources available we can also offer a lot if all like-minded people come together and produce works with the global market on target.
MTNews: Do you believe your career would have reached a greater height at this time and age?
Meren: Maybe, maybe not, but I believe that God will eventually guide us to where we should reach or where we need to be in our life at a certain point of time if we trust him, work hard/smart, never give up and keep on learning.
MTNews: What inspired you into acting in the first place? Was it tough to be among the pioneers of the Naga film industry?
Meren: I never asked myself what I wanted to become in life but I was always actively involved in everything since my school days; so when the acting opportunity came, I just took it. Yes, it was tough because among other hurdles, we could also not rely solely on this profession monetarily.
MTNews: What do you feel is more important for an actor, talent or training?
Meren: Goes hand in hand and I also believe that for some people it’s their inborn talent or calling in life that takes them further than training. But talent must definitely be polished and updated with training.
MTNews: Who do you consider to be your acting role model whose career you would like to emulate, and why?
Meren: I have always looked up to Bruce Lee since my formative years. I like everything about him even if his career was tragically cut short and I also took TaeKwonDo martial arts lessons for some years back then initially. Here in Bollywood I am inspired by actors like SRK and Jackie Shroff.
MTNews: If you were to act again, what kind of a character would you like to play?
Meren: I mostly like to play anti-hero characters but I am open to any character that suits me.
MTNews: Would you encourage more people to pursue acting as a career?
Meren: Of Course! I would, with all my heart. It’s high time for the inclusion of actors even in Bollywood from our region. And it’s also high time we target the global market like South Korea is doing.
MTNews: A message to your fans and our readers
Meren: Hello there, dear ones thank you for years of love, kindness and encouragement “Boss Meren” has received all along. May God Almighty bless you all. Our Naga film industry needs to be promoted and developed so your continuous support is required to take it to the next level. Let us all play our part.
Lots of love
